Lee Hae-min, secretary-general of the Justice Party, issued a statement from Cho's campaign office, criticizing the Democratic leadership's claim that "the suspicions have been resolved" based on Kim's bank account records. He argued that the allegations surrounding Kim's alleged involvement in a loan shark operation remain unresolved. Lee stated, "They have simply copied the arrogant 'apology season 2' habits of Yoon Seok-yeol and Kim Gun-hee. Kim's true nature as a deceptive prosecutor is now evident, misleading voters."
Democratic secretary-general Cho Seung-rae did not hide his displeasure regarding the "fake Democratic candidate" remark. He noted, "A few days ago, we met and agreed to refrain from emotional criticisms between secretaries-general, despite individual remarks from lawmakers. Yet, when the situation became unfavorable, they disregarded that promise and resorted to inflammatory language like 'fake candidate.'" He emphasized that the citizens of Pyeongtaek should not bear the burden of a candidate like Kim, who is unfit for office, and that the Democratic camp cannot accommodate a divisive figure like him.
Cho continued his criticism of Cho Kuk and the Justice Party during a press briefing at the National Assembly, stating, "The Justice Party candidate should compete under the Justice Party name, not wear a Democratic mask. We hope they will run under their own banner." He added, "Cho claims to represent the Democratic camp, but even Kim Jae-yeon, the chair of the Progressive Party, would disagree with that assertion."
He further remarked, "Politics in South Korea does not revolve around the Justice Party or the Democratic Party. It is centered on the supporters of the Democratic Party and the progressive camp. The argument that 'if I win, unification will proceed smoothly; if not, it will be difficult' is absurd logic."
Meanwhile, Kim, who was previously known as a "sharpshooter" targeting Cho's private equity fund allegations during his time in the conservative camp, has engaged in a back-and-forth with Cho throughout this election cycle. The two candidates failed to reach an agreement on a potential unification by the start of early voting on May 29, effectively rendering it unfeasible. Observers suggest that the escalating conflict between the two candidates could pose challenges for party unification after the election.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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